Liverpool have postponed all their transfer activities as they concentrate on finalizing the acquisition of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, according to reports from Germany.
The Reds have reached an agreement valued at €136.3 million (£116.1 million, $157.8 million) to secure Wirtz, who is expected to sign a contract upon his return from vacation later this week.
In their efforts to set a new Premier League transfer record, Liverpool have had to slow down their other transfer initiatives, including the anticipated signing of Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez.
A deal for Kerkez is believed to be nearly completed, with a £45 million ($61 million) agreement established between the two clubs, but Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Liverpool will not finalize his transfer until Wirtz has officially joined the team.
It is emphasized that Liverpool has no worries regarding the potential failure of Kerkez’s transfer; however, the significant expense associated with Wirtz’s transfer has necessitated a cautious approach for the upcoming week until they are able to resume their business activities.
Liverpool has already secured the acquisition of two new players this summer.
Right-back Jeremie Frimpong was signed from Leverkusen for £29.5 million ($40 million), followed by the arrival of young goalkeeper Ármin Pécsi for £1.5 million ($2 million).
The addition of Wirtz and Kerkez would elevate Liverpool’s summer expenditure to nearly £200 million ($271.1 million).
Arne Slot is still believed to be interested in acquiring a new striker and centre-back; however, as noted by BILD, Liverpool may now need to concentrate on player sales before they can pursue any additional signings.
Darwin Núñez is anticipated to be sold due to interest from Saudi Arabia, where there is also a desire to compete with Barcelona for the signing of Luis Díaz.
Left-back Andy Robertson has attracted interest from Atlético Madrid, while uncertainties remain regarding the futures of Jarell Quansah, Joe Gomez, Harvey Elliott, and Federico Chiesa.